Starting a family is an exciting journey, and preparing for a healthy pregnancy begins well before conception. Preconception care focuses on improving your health before you become pregnant, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both you and your future baby.
What Is Preconception Care?
Preconception care involves a set of health checks, lifestyle changes, and medical guidance that aim to optimize a woman’s health before she becomes pregnant. It’s not just for women, either—men play an important role in conception and the health of the baby, too.
Why Is It Important?
Many birth defects and complications can be prevented with proper preconception planning. Some health issues or lifestyle habits may affect your fertility or the development of a baby early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she’s pregnant.
Key Elements of Preconception Care
Schedule a Preconception Checkup
Visit your healthcare provider to discuss:
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Medical history
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Current medications
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Chronic health conditions (like diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid issues)
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Past pregnancies or fertility concerns
Start Taking Folic Acid
Folic acid (at least 400–800 micrograms daily) helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby’s brain and spine. Start taking it at least one month before trying to conceive.
Review Your Lifestyle Habits
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Quit smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs
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Limit caffeine intake
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Maintain a healthy diet
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Get regular exercise
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Manage stress levels
Know Your Cycle
Understanding your menstrual cycle can help identify your most fertile days and improve your chances of conception.
Check Immunizations
Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, especially for:
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Rubella
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Hepatitis B
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Tetanus
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COVID-19 (if recommended by your healthcare provider)
Address Mental Health
Mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Discuss any history of depression or anxiety with your provider and develop a plan to stay emotionally healthy.
Men Matter Too
Male partners should also focus on their health:
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and certain medications that affect sperm quality
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Get screened for STIs
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Manage chronic conditions